Orchids that are less than perfect - can someone evaluate?

[uwodahikamama]

Originally Posted by Roberta

Some orchids stay in bloom for several months like Phals and some Dendrobiums, Some for only a couple of weeks or less - some other dendrobiums, and lots of other things, some for a month or so... some last only a few days or less, that are still wonderful while they are in bloom. So, it is impossible to generalize, and as you get more familiar with the different types you'll learn what to expect.

Just another thought to file away, especially if you are growing indoors. A very tiny leak from a gas stove can cause buds to blast - to poop out before they open. Even ripening fruit can do it. So after eliminating other causes for bud blast, this can also explain it. But you're not looking at bud blast here, just normal flower aging I think.

Ooohhh that is good to know though! I guess after reading stories of people losing large collections I starting worrying about pretty much everything. I saved up months for the plants I have now.

[Ray]

Stop your weekly soap/water/alcohol spraying. It is accomplishing nothing, and wetting the plants down is to be generally avoided.

[uwodahikamama]

Originally Posted by Ray

Stop your weekly soap/water/alcohol spraying. It is accomplishing nothing, and wetting the plants down is to be generally avoided.

I only did it when they arrived, in case they had anything on them. But it’s hard to know if what I’m reading on websites is actually true/helpful or not. Should I skip it when they arrive from elsewhere?

[estación seca]

I only spray for bugs when I see bugs. Alcohol doesn't kill mealy bugs nor scale unless it's at least 70% so it's pointless to dilute with soapy water. I usually use only soapy water for bugs now that isopropyl alcohol has tripled in price.

[uwodahikamama]

Originally Posted by estación seca

I only spray for bugs when I see bugs. Alcohol doesn't kill mealy bugs nor scale unless it's at least 70% so it's pointless to dilute with soapy water. I usually use only soapy water for bugs now that isopropyl alcohol has tripled in price.

Oh whoops! I read it online in articles, but didn’t have anyone knowledgeable I could double check with… 😩

[Dusty Ol' Man]

You're best bet, aside from here, is to join your local orchid society. They can see your plants up close and give even better advice.

[tmoney]

howdy,

i know im late to this party, but i would agree, as was mentioned it seems best practice to avoid precautionary/preventative maintenance for bugs. also need to consider resistance in critter populations.
perhaps some systemics are used in greenhouse scenarios to protect against fungus or such, but generally not at home. best not to spray your plants unless you know you have something. this has been my experience, anyways. your plants looked fine from what i could see, but i ain't no professional!

good luck with the new collection!

[uwodahikamama]

Originally Posted by tmoney

howdy,

i know im late to this party, but i would agree, as was mentioned it seems best practice to avoid precautionary/preventative maintenance for bugs. also need to consider resistance in critter populations.
perhaps some systemics are used in greenhouse scenarios to protect against fungus or such, but generally not at home. best not to spray your plants unless you know you have something. this has been my experience, anyways. your plants looked fine from what i could see, but i ain't no professional!

good luck with the new collection!

Thank you very much! I’ll knock it off and leave my poor plants alone